Starting pitcher Roki Sasaki has been placed on the 15-day injured list by the Los Angeles Dodgers due to a blister on his right middle finger. Sasaki was pulled from a game against the Atlanta Braves during the fourth inning after the issue developed unexpectedly. The 24-year-old had pitched 3 1/3 innings before being removed from the game.
He said the blister appeared suddenly and without warning during his fourth-inning start, according to tsn.ca. Sasaki had walked the first batter of the fourth inning before the injury occurred. The injury was assessed by an athletic trainer on the mound after a few more batters were faced. He indicated afterward that he would discuss the situation with his trainers and pitching coach to determine if it affects his next start.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Sasaki’s condition was serious enough to require placing him on the injured list. Roberts also said Eric Lauer would return to the rotation in Sasaki’s place, according to a report from NBC Sports. Lauer had been working out of the bullpen before being moved back into the starting rotation, NBC Sports reported.
Sasaki mentioned that he had dealt with similar issues in Japan but usually noticed warning signs beforehand. This time, he said the situation was different and came on without any prior indication.
The injury will likely keep Sasaki out for at least one turn through the Dodgers’ rotation. He may be sidelined until mid-September depending on how quickly he heals.
Sasaki’s absence leaves a gap in the Dodgers’ starting rotation that Lauer will temporarily fill. The team has not yet announced when Lauer will begin his next start.
IMAGE: CHIBA_LOTTE_Sasaki_Roki_20220424. Photo: Orixbaseballclub / Wikimedia, taken 2022-04-24, CC BY-SA 4.0